NFL's CBA Expected To Players; Mawae Won't Rush

A virtually completed deal to end the NFL's four-month lockout is expected to be presented to player representatives on Wednesday for review and possible recommendation of approval, several people familiar with the deliberations said Tuesday night, according to the Washington Post.

Attorneys for the league and players met Tuesday in New York with their court-appointed mediator, and failed to resolve all remaining issues, according to people not involved in the negotiations but familiar with them. But the two sides made sufficient progress that they intended to have a draft ready for presentation to the players Wednesday in Washington, those people said.

The agreement would have to be approved by a majority of the close to 2,000 players, and their vote could come by conference call or e-mail as soon as late Wednesday. However, NFLPA president Kevin Mawae said that the process will not be rushed to ensure that the deal is approved before the owners vote on Thursday to approve it on behalf in the league. "We're not tied to a time line of July 21."

Ed Staton is a former sports writer for the Times Picayune and New Orleans States Item. He also served as the New Orleans Saints Information Director. He has won 43 media awards in writing, design and photography.

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